Signs of Sickle cell crisis (Thrombotic)

Description

Occurs in patient with sickle cell disease when sickled red blood cells clog blood vessels. Sickle cell disease is the most common of the hereditary blood disorders, and occurs almost exclusively among black Americans and black Africans. A sickle cell crisis causes pain because blood vessels become blocked and the defective red blood cells can damage organs in the body. The most commonly affected organs include: lungs, liver, bone, muscles, brain, spleen, penis, eyes, and kidneys.

Symptoms

Chest pain, breathing problems, weakness, seizures, confusion, weak pulse, abdominal pain, coma.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests to detect the severity of the anemia and the ability to produce red blood cells will be performed. Other tests to identify the damage done by the sickle cell crisis will be done.

Standard Workup

CBC
Chem 12
Lipase
Troponin
UA
X-Ray
EKG
CT Scan
MRI
Ultrasound

Treatment

Treatment includes: intravenous fluids, supplemental oxygen, pain medications, antibiotics (if infection is found), and/or blood transfusions. For additional information contact the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute Health Information Center at: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov or call (301)592-8573. For more information contact: Sickle Cell Disease Association of American, Inc.: (800)421-8453